Standard Guide for Forensic Paint Analysis and Comparison

1.1 This guide is intended to assist individuals and laboratories that conduct forensic paint analyses in their selection, application, and evaluation of tests that can be of value to their investigation. It is not intended as a detailed methods description or protocol for the analysis and comparison of paints but as a guide to a reasonable order for testing and to the strengths, limitations, and possible pitfalls of each of a variety of potentially useful analytical methods. Numerous detailed materials are available that discuss each method, and selected references are noted as appropriate.

1.2 This guide is intended for application to the analysis of industrial and commercially prepared paints and related coatings. It does not propose to address the unique requirements of artistic, historical, or restorative paint analysis, although some of the methods discussed herein may be applied to those fields.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.